Date of Graduation

Spring 5-16-2024

Document Type

Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

College/School

School of Nursing and Health Professions

Department/Program

Nursing

Program

Family Nurse Practitioner

First Advisor

Dr. Jo Loomis

Second Advisor

Dr. Serafin-Dickson

Abstract

Abstract

Background: In pediatric cancer patients, comprehensive treatment and its side effects, such as fever and neutropenia (FN), significantly impact physical and emotional well-being. Prompt evaluation and treatment of FN are crucial to prevent complications. Proper training of parents in preventing, recognizing, and managing low-grade fever and administering antibiotics at home or outpatient settings is essential for positive outcomes.

Local Problem: A multidisciplinary pediatric cancer treatment center in Northern California.

Methods: A pre- and post-assessment evaluation was conducted to evaluate the knowledge acquisition of nurses after an educational intervention.

Intervention: This Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project aimed to enhance nurses’ knowledge to educate patients and their families on prompt recognition of FN signs and symptoms, timely treatment effectiveness, and safe management in an outpatient setting to enhance the quality of life (QoL).

Results: Thirteen out of 30 eligible participants listened to a 15-minute pre-recorded presentation. The session was intended to enhance the knowledge and confidence of oncology nurses in caring for and educating families of patients who presented with fever and neutropenia. Although the project’s primary outcome measures could not predict the overall implementation outcomes, nurses expressed increased confidence in providing patient education during each encounter. In general, nurses indicated they would incorporate the information into the care of each patient presenting with FN and recommend the presentation to their colleagues.

Conclusions: FN is the primary cause of emergency room visits, unforeseen hospitalizations, and diminished QoL in children receiving cancer treatment. Educating parents on preventing and managing FN, including the safe administration of antibiotics at home or in outpatient settings, is essential to reducing unplanned hospital stays and improving patient QoL. A brief training session was developed to provide nurses with clear information on preventing, recognizing, and treating infections to enhance positive outcomes for patients and their families. Overall, nurses supported the training session content and value.

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